Common rue, or Ruta graveolens, is one of the drought tolerant plant choices that go well in water-wise gardens. It is adaptable and evergreen, with many uses in the landscape. Rue also has in interesting history and features.
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This evergreen perennial shrub grows 2 to 3 feet high with a width of 2 to 3 feet. With wood stems on the lower part and herbaceous stems on the upper part, rue has spoon-like aromatic leaves that are sea-green in color. Flowers are small and yellow and arrive in the mid-summer season. Depending on the cultivar, leaf colors and growth variations can occur.
Ruta graveolens should be planted in soil that is poor and sandy for best results. Conditions should include full sun with regular watering while newly established, but can be drought tolerant once established. New rue plants can be had from propagating an established plant by fall tip cuttings or by seed. Common rue grows well in USDA hardiness zones of 4 through 9, with proper winter mulching in the colder regions.
How to Use Ruta graveolens
Rue works well in desert gardens, water-wise landscapes, containers, and in herb gardens. It is good for a low border hedge or in a rock garden. As long as it has good draining, it does very well in windowsills and other tight areas.
Rue has a risk of contact dermatitis and many get skin rashes from it. Hot sun can make the plant blister skin when touched, like a poison ivy rash. Taking rue internally produces vomiting, convulsions and stomach pain.
Rue can be an insect repellent when leaves are dried and crushed. The plant is said to ward off evil spirits and witches with its scent. It is the rue leaf that is on playing cards as the black suit other than clubs, the suit referred to by children as ‚”puppydog’s feet”. Rue that is stolen from a neighboring garden is said in folklore to grow best. Rue is the floral symbol of repentance, sorrow and of regret.
Ruta graveolens is a versatile plant that can have a home in most any type of garden planted. It has a rich heritage in lore and gardening, one that is fun to bring up when guests comment on the plant. No matter what you are looking for in a water-wise plant, rue is sure to please.
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